This is an alternative, inclusive, rock 'n' roll anthem. A lot of "patriotic" songs tell you what to think about your country. David wanted to ask questions instead - "what does America mean to you?" This is the only song on "Patchwork Planet" which we had recorded previously - on our first children's recording, "Friends". We decided to re-record it for this album, particularly because of the lyrics related to our "patchwork quilt" theme.
(Chorus:) Red, white, and blue What does America mean to you? Independence Day How do you feel about the U.S.A.?
I feel happy, 'cause I am free to be what I want to be I feel sad, 'cause I can see people who aren't as lucky as me
(Chorus)
This country was built by many hands From many far and distant lands A patchwork quilt of many strands Divided we fall, united we stand
(Chorus)
Many kinds of people have been left out Until they had to march and shout It's enough to make you start to doubt what this country's all about
(Chorus)
There's lots of other lands around with pretty sights and pretty sounds and that's what makes the world go 'round and round and round and round and round
